Patriarch Porfirije: The example of Christ inspires care for mothers and women

Patriarch Porfirije at Rakovica Monastery on the Dormition of the Theotokos. Photo: OrthodoxTimes

On August 28, 2025, His Holiness Patriarch Porfirije of Serbia celebrated the Divine Liturgy at Rakovica Monastery for the Dormition of the Most Holy Theotokos, addressing the veneration of the Mother of God and the care for women, reports OrthodoxTimes.

In his homily, the Primate highlighted the role of the Virgin Mary as the Mother of all believers and as the “ladder uniting heaven and earth.” He stressed that through humility and faith the Theotokos became the “most holy throne” and the supreme example of a human being through whom dialogue between God and mankind takes place.

The Patriarch reminded that Christ Himself, even while on the Cross, showed particular concern for His Mother by entrusting Her to the holy Apostle John. “This example of the Lord should inspire each of us to care for our mothers and for every woman,” Porfirije said, calling on the faithful to take responsibility for mothers, sisters, and daughters.

The Patriarch also drew attention to the challenges facing Serbian society today. According to him, there are about 320,000 single mothers in the country, as well as many women subjected to violence. He emphasized that true veneration of the Mother of God must be expressed not only in prayer but also in concrete help to mothers and women in need of protection and support.

Earlier, the UOJ reported that the Serbian Patriarch pointed to forgiveness and love as the foundation of authentic Christian life.

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